Quick Answer
Okay, so here's the quick version. You need to shut down your solar system safely. You're going to flip a couple of switches, always in a specific order to protect both yourself and the equipment. First, you must shut off the AC power to isolate the solar inverter from the grid and your house's electrical panel. This is typically done at a dedicated AC disconnect switch or a circuit breaker in your main electrical panel. Then, and only then, you de-energize the DC power coming directly from the solar panels. This is usually done with a DC disconnect switch near the inverter or at the array itself. Reversing this order or performing the steps incorrectly can be dangerous, potentially leading to electric shock, arc flash, or damage to expensive inverter components. If you are unsure or haven't been properly trained, paying a qualified professional a hundred dollars or so to walk you through the precise procedure for your specific system is cheap and absolutely essential insurance.
Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Identify all disconnect switches. Look for an AC disconnect near your utility meter and a DC disconnect near the inverter. These should be clearly labeled, but often aren't.
Step 2
Understand the function of each switch. The AC disconnect cuts the system off from your home and the grid. The DC disconnect cuts the system off from the panels on the roof.
Step 3
Locate the main breaker for the solar system in your home's main breaker box. It's typically a larger, double-pole breaker.
Step 4
If you can't find the switches or they aren't labeled, dig out the system documentation from your installer. The diagrams should show you everything.
Step 5
Once you know the procedure, make sure everyone in the household knows where these critical shutdown points are. An emergency is a bad time to be searching.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
On-Site Instruction & Labeling | $0-20 | $100 - $250 | 1 hour |
Replacement of Faulty Disconnect Switch | DO NOT ATTEMPT | $200 - $600 | 2-3 hours |
Emergency Shutdown Guidance (Phone/Virtual) | $0 | $0 - $50 | 15 minutes |
When to Call a Professional Solar
- If you cannot locate the disconnect switches or if they are not labeled.
- If you are even slightly unsure about the proper shutdown procedure for your specific system.
- If any disconnect switch appears damaged, rusty, melted, or is extremely difficult to operate.
- If you want someone to professionally label your disconnects and provide a safety briefing for your family.
- For any issues beyond simple switch operation, such as the system showing a fault code after a restart.
Prevention Tips
- Label everything clearly with a good label maker. Don't rely on handwritten notes that can fade.
- Do a 'dry run' of the shutdown and startup procedure once a year to make sure you remember it and the switches work.
- Take a video on your phone of the shutdown process and email it to yourself and your spouse. It's a perfect reminder.
- Keep your solar system's manual in an easily accessible location, not buried in a closet.
- Educate all adult household members on how to perform an emergency shutdown.
- Schedule annual maintenance with a reputable solar company to ensure all safety components are working correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
Your Solar App is Lying to You? (How to Manually Check Your Solar Production)
Solar monitoring app inaccurate? Your bill is high? A 25+ year tech shows you how to manually check your solar panels and inverter to find the real problem.
Solar battery backup fails to activate or provide electricity to a home during a utility grid outage, leading to a complete loss of power despite a solar-plus-storage system being installed and expected to operate during an outage. Troubleshooting & Fixes (2024 Guide)
Solar battery failed during a power outage? You're not alone. A veteran tech with 25+ years in the field shows you the common causes—from simple tripped breakers to a failed transfer switch—and what you can actually fix yourself.
Solar Panel Damage from Hail or Storms (Troubleshooting & Fixes)
Seeing hail damage on your solar panels or a drop in power? A 25+ year vet explains how to spot the problem, what to do, and when to call a pro.
Solar Monitoring App Not Working: Troubleshooting Communication Errors (2024 Guide)
Solar app not showing data? Get a veteran tech's guide to fixing communication errors yourself. Learn to reboot your system and fix connectivity issues fast.
Solar hot water system not heating water adequately, resulting in lukewarm or cold water. Troubleshooting & Fixes
Solar Inverter Error Code (Troubleshooting & Fixes)
Getting an error code on your solar inverter? A veteran tech with 25+ years of experience shows you how to troubleshoot the issue and figure out if it's a DIY fix or time to call a pro.
Need Professional Help?
Find top-rated solar experts in your area